In the Northern Hemisphere, gusty winds shifting clockwise, a rapid drop in temperature, thunderstorms or rain squalls in summer (frequent rain/snow squalls in winter) then a rise in pressure followed by clearing skies, indicate the passage of a(n) __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — cold front

According to Bowditch, a cold front passage in the Northern Hemisphere is characterized by veering winds, abrupt temperature drops, heavy squalls, and subsequent barometric rise with clearing skies. These rapid meteorological shifts distinguish aggressive cold air displacement.